Bacon Jam
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr 30 mins
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Total Time
1 hr 45 mins
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Servings
12 servings
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Calories
136 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
American
Bacon Jam
Description
The Bacon Jam recipe combines 1 1/2 pounds of bacon cut into pieces, cooked slowly to render fat and brown lightly. Onions and garlic are sautéed in reserved bacon fat to develop a base flavor. Adding brewed coffee, cider vinegar, dark brown sugar, and maple syrup introduces layers of bitterness, acidity, and sweetness, which, after simmering until nearly all liquid evaporates, produce a glossy, jam-like consistency. The slow simmering over stovetop or slow cooker concentrates flavors and softens bacon pieces, creating a rich yet balanced condiment.
The final jam offers a unique balance of smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy notes, with a sticky texture that clings well to bread or crackers. It can enhance savory recipes or serve as a flavor-packed addition to breakfast or charcuterie boards.
This jam freezes well for up to six months when stored airtight. Save leftover bacon fat for cooking to impart bacon flavor to other dishes. Thick-cut bacon is recommended for best texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds Bacon cut crosswise into 1-inch (25-mm) pieces, sliced
- 2 medium onion cut into smallish dice, yellow
- 3 garlic smashed and peeled, cloves
- 3/4 cup coffee strongly brewed
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar or less to taste, packed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (the real deal, please)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over mediumish heat, cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until the fat is rendered and the bacon is lightly browned, about 20 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to paper towel-lined plates to drain.
- Pour off all but 1 tablespoon drippings from the skillet and reserve for another use. Add the onions and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onions are translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the coffee, vinegar, brown sugar, and maple syrup and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the skillet, for 2 minutes. Add the bacon and stir to combine.
- If making this on a stovetop, reduce the heat to a bare simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the liquid almost completely evaporates and turns syrupy, 1 to 1 1/2 hours. If making this in a slow-cooker, transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow-cooker and cook on high, uncovered, until the liquid almost completely evaporates and turns syrupy, 3 1/2 to 4 hours.
- Let the bacon concoction cool slightly before transferring it to a food processor and pulsing until coarsely chopped. Spoon the bacon lusciousness into individual jars or other resealable containers and refrigerate for up to 4 weeks. Spoon into a pan and rewarm gently over low heat prior to indulging.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bacon to ensure hearty texture and optimal flavor.
- Store bacon jam in an airtight container and freeze for up to six months.
- Reserve and reuse bacon fat as a flavorful cooking oil for other recipes.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 136 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving (2 tablespoons) | |
| Calories | 136kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Protein | 7g | 14% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 19mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 322mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.